Labeled by some as the top prospect before the season, Cole Anthony has struggled to find his rhythm at UNC. His percentages are shaky, his defense is a problem, and there are very real question marks about this NBA future. Still, at a certain point, talent trumps all. The Knicks need a point guard, and the Knicks need star potential.
In spite of his flaws, Anthony is solid value at the No. 8 spot. He’s a strong-bodied, quick twitch athlete who can create space on a dime, finish in traffic, and run an offense. His missed seven weeks due to injury this season, so perhaps his struggles are in part due to rust.
Anthony should have more success in the NBA, where space and talent are more abundant. The Knicks aren’t the best solution to the “poor teammates” problem, but in the end, New York with a real point guard could finally take some semblance of a step in the right direction.